An unexpected event occurred in the city of Guardamar del Segura in the Alicante province of Spain. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
A poisonous and rare marine creature living underwater — the “Glaucus atlanticus,” also known as the “blue dragon,” a small sea slug — appeared on the city’s famous beaches. This was reported by local media outlets, and the CNN publication also covered the incident.
On August 20, the Guardamar police issued an official statement on their social media pages. It stated that swimming was temporarily prohibited on the city’s shores to ensure the safety of residents and tourists.
Due to the appearance of the “blue dragon,” all beaches were closed and will only reopen after new instructions are issued. This creature is named so because its external appearance resembles a mythical dragon.
Although it is only about three centimeters long, it is considered very dangerous due to its toxicity. According to scientists, the “blue dragon” feeds on much larger marine animals, accumulates their poison in its body, and uses it to paralyze its prey.
It can neutralize prey that is 300 times larger than itself. Police warn that contact with this sea slug can cause severe burns and pain on human skin.
Therefore, local residents and tourists are advised not to touch the unusual creature if they see it on the sand or in the water. The city mayor, José Luis Sáez, also urged the public to be very cautious.
He said: “Do not touch it even with gloves. If someone is stung, immediately rinse the affected area with salt water and seek medical help.”
After a few days, the ban on the beaches was lifted and swimming was allowed. However, local authorities and experts emphasize the necessity of strictly following safety precautions.
For reference, Alicante province is considered one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations. It attracts millions of tourists with its sunny climate, pure sandy beaches, and rocky shores.
However, the appearance of the “blue dragon” may negatively affect tourism in this area. It is noted that this sea slug is usually found in the warm waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
They move influenced by currents and wind. Its appearance in the Mediterranean Sea is a very rare occurrence.
Therefore, the sighting of the “blue dragon” in the city of Guardamar was also regarded as an unusual event by naturalists.
